New Jersey Traffic Fatalities

The number of people fatally injured in car accidents on New Jersey roads has risen over the past four years and is now higher than it has been in the last decade. There were over 600 traffic fatalities in 2017, a 16 percent increase since 2013, when the number of fatalities was at the lowest rate. The first five months of 2017 experienced a drop of eight percent only to be followed by a 28 percent increase from June to November.

According to State Police statistics, there were 67 traffic fatalities in October, the highest monthly report in the last 10 years. Preliminary data reveals that the record-breaking number was surpassed the next month, in November. A Northeast representative from AAA attributes this increase to modern vehicle technologies causing distractions. More manufacturers are installing voice-to-text and phone synchronization in new car models, contributing to the number of traffic fatalities due to distracted driving.

Eliminating the Problem

A goal of reducing traffic fatalities by 2.5 percent between 2015 and 2018 was set in a 2015 state highway safety plan. However, by the summer of 2016, the number of fatalities had increased. Acting director of the state Division of Highway Traffic Safety believes there are several factors responsible for the increase in fatalities. However, distracted and impaired driving are often cited as the main culprits. In-vehicle technology is not necessarily safe, as drivers often assume. A study conducted by AAA found that 23 of 30 in-dash infotainment systems were distracting, despite being hands-free.

According to the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA), there was a 27 percent increase in the number of people fatally injured in alcohol-related accidents in 2016. Highways and interstates are more dangerous because drivers tend to drive at higher speeds. The New Jersey State Police preliminary data reveals the number of fatal accidents in each county. Camden County was the site of 40 accidents and 44 fatalities, many occurring on Routes 30, 130, and on the New Jersey Turnpike.

The AAA representative believes that the state should educate motorists on practicing safe driving habits and reducing dangerous behavior, such as drunk driving. She also emphasizes the importance of fixing the roadways as potholes pose a specific danger to New Jersey motorists. AAA has considered several safety measures such as installing sidewalks and safer road crossings, and reducing travel lanes from undivided four-lane roadways to two-lane roadways.

Camden County Car Accident Lawyers at DiTomaso Law Represent Victims of All Types of Car Accidents

If you or a loved one has sustained injuries in a car accident, a Camden County car accident lawyer at DiTomaso Law can help you obtain the maximum compensation you deserve. For a free consultation, contact us online, or call us at 856-414-0010. We represent clients throughout New Jersey and Pennsylvania.